This collection of moral and philosophical essays delivers sustained reflections on human nature, virtue, and social manners. The author employs a didactic, aphoristic voice that privileges instruction over diversion, addressing moral sentiment, conscience, the corrupting influence of fashion and frivolous literary taste, and the responsibilities of readers and writers. Composed chiefly as solo papers with a few outside contributions, the pieces blend critical commentary, theological conviction, and practical counsel to encourage self-examination, personal improvement, and resistance to shallow amusement.